In today’s study we take our cue from the Proverbs 31 woman, who had such grace and quiet power to shape her home into a peaceful haven. She was an ideal homemaker, blessing her family through her words and actions, always seeking ways to improve their lives.

Today I want us to focus on the deeper meaning of our perfect-world pin-grabbing and photo sharing. I want to seek the deeper value of our dusting, sweeping, and washing. What is the true purpose of all our efforts as moms who literally serve as home-makers?

…the homes we make, in all their refuge and comfort, are simply stand-ins for the true home we were made to desire. Our homemaking is but a way of walking well toward the place our Lord promised to prepare for us (see John 14:3).

Authors Sally & Sarah Clarkson create a beautiful picture of homemaking in The Lifegiving Home. The book is divided by seasons and offers many ideas for creating a peaceful atmosphere.

I like this peaceful idea for December. The Clarkson family holds an annual Christmas tea for women. They offer a lovely menu of soup, quiche, salads, and rich desserts. Then Sally asks a single question of each woman, a thoughtful, reflective question. The discussion promotes honesty and fellowship. The Clarksons send each woman home with a tree ornament tied to a theme, like a teacup with this sentiment: “Drink the cup God has given you and accept it as grace.”

I can see myself offering a simplified Christmas tea in my home. I can ask everyone to bring a dish to simplify the process. Choosing questions from Christmas Peace for Busy Moms, I can foster a peaceful discussion. I want to create peaceful memories with friends and family in my home, and a Christmas tea party may be the door to undiscovered peace.

Questions for you:

Look up John 14:1-3. How do you gain peace from this verse, knowing what Jesus is preparing for you now?